Frequently Asked Questions

A school supply free store is a charitable organization. It is retail space with shelves, fixtures and shopping carts where teachers have equal access to free school supplies specific to the needs their students and learning experience.

Who is eligible to shop at The Pencil Box?

The Pencil Box is not open to the public. Eligible schools are public schools in Tulsa County where 70% or more of the students live at or below the Federal Poverty Level. There are currently 70 eligible schools in Tulsa County, where 60% of the students live at or below the national poverty level. Our aim is to serve all eligible schools in Tulsa County by 2020.

Lead core classroom teachers at eligible schools, grades pre-kindergarten through 12, are invited to partner with The Pencil Box. Teachers pay an annual $35 participation fee. During school year 2017-2018, teachers received an average of $880 worth of supplies for their students and classrooms.

When is The Pencil Box open?

School supply donations are received year-round. Teachers can shop for free school supplies August through April.

The Pencil Box is a charitable 501 (c)(3) organization funded solely through generous donations from corporations, businesses, foundations and individuals. It is not publicly funded, nor does it receive support from United Way.

May I claim a tax deduction for my donation?

In most cases, businesses and individuals can claim donations as charitable contributions. However, we suggest you consult your tax advisor. Click here to donate

There is no monetary limit to how much teachers can take for their students. We ask teachers to shop responsibly and only for the students in their classroom.

Some items are limited to ensure that merchandise is fairly distributed to all students. Those items are clearly marked with the maximum quantities allowed, based on typical class sizes and time of school year.

Are there any items The Pencil Box does not accept?

Items should be new or very lightly used.

We do not accept discards.

We typically only accept items that will fit on the back seat of a teacher’s car. However, please do not hesitate to contact us if you have larger items, as we might be able to use them.

Does The Pencil Box provide a pick-up service for donations?

We have a limited ability to pick up donations. Therefore, we request that donors please arrange for delivery or drop off contributions at our store.

May students volunteer at The Pencil Box for community service hours?

Yes. Students ages 14 and over are encouraged to fulfill their community service hours at The Pencil Box. Please contact us for details at info@pencilboxtulsa.org